DogOfViolence
Most Wanted Hacker - But Error 404 Not Found !
- USDT(TRC-20)
- $0.0
Dive deeper into the best PlayStation 5 games with a great gaming headset ready to leverage all the advanced audio capabilities of the PlayStation 5. Whether you want the best wireless headset for PS5, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P, an awesome headset that keeps you tethered like the EPOS H6Pro, or something else, we’ve found ten solid headsets sure to keep you immersed in the action.
The best PS5 headsets deliver excellent sound, first and foremost, as nothing takes you out of the game quicker than muddy sonic texture, and your teammates will also appreciate a clear mic. Features like noise cancelling, adjustable EQ settings, and support for Sony’s 3D audio tech can make a world of difference in your listening experience and even give you an advantage in games. Best of all, you might not even need to empty your wallet for those extras if you score a great gaming headset deal.
From budget to high-end, all our picks bring a better, more immersive sound than the speakers found on the best PS5 TVs – and click here to see them in the UK. And if you want another way to customize your gaming setup, you can also add some new faceplates to your PS5, too.
If you're looking for discounts on the best PS5 accessories, check out our picks for the best PS5 deals.
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm custom | Max battery life: Up to 38 hours | Weight: 324g | Price: $179.99
Pros
Cons
Fabulous audio quality and comfort without an eye-watering price tag, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless, the PS5 version of the Arctis Nova 7, is the best wireless gaming headset for PS5. Out of the box, the sound is nicely bass-heavy with a reasonably wide soundstage. It’s able to take full advantage of the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, one of the console’s flagship features that situates sounds in an immersive 360-degree space around your ears.
The microphone, although dinky and retractable, is beefer than it might appear. It’s crisper and louder than many other headsets you’ll find at this price point, and it does a particularly good job of canceling out background noise like chatter and whirring fans. Aall of this can be easily adjusted using the robust EQ controls accessed through a PC companion app, which makes experimenting with different settings a breeze.
The icing on the cake is the Arctis Nova 7P’s battery life. It can easily top more than 30 hours and will get back to full juice in a couple of hours of charging. Throw in PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile compatibility through a USB-C dongle or Bluetooth, and this is a quality catch-all headset that will last.
Specs: Connectivity: 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 42mm Neodymium | Max battery life: N/A (Wired) | Weight: 322g | Price: $179.00
Pros
Cons
If you’re after excellent audio quality but would rather be wired to your PS5, consider the EPOS H6Pro. With a wide soundstage and even range, anything you throw at this headset – from lush orchestras to the multi-layered audio effects – sounds pretty darn excellent. The microphone is loud and clear, too, although tends to accentuate the highs of your voice.
It’s also fabulously comfortable, with big, thick cushions around the ear cups that provide plenty of support without getting too hot. The large volume dial is a nice touch, as is the detachable magnetic microphone. Combined with the headset’s sleek, semi-minimalist design, the H6Pro can serve as a handy pair of headphones for on-the-go music listening as well as gaming.
Bear in mind the H6Pro comes in both open- and closed-back variants. You’ll enjoy better ventilation from the open-back version, while the closed-back will better isolate your ears from outside noise and stop the sound from your headset leaking out. We’d opt for the closed-back.
Connectivity: USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 17 hours | Weight: 244g | Price: $79.99
Pros
Cons
The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is the exception to the rule among budget gaming headsets: a sub-$100 pair of cans with good enough audio quality to make the extra cost of their wireless connectivity worthwhile. The 40mm drivers are solid and workmanlike, even if they suffer from scooped mids, and the microphone will pick up your voice with all the clarity you’d need for gaming with your buddies.
Outside of a volume wheel, which is still something of a rarity among cheaper headsets, you’re not getting a lot in the way of features. The headband is sturdy thanks to an inner metal frame, the headset doesn’t pinch too tightly around the noggin, and the battery lasts around 17 hours before needing a charge. There’s nothing flashy here, but you’ll struggle to find another wireless headset that can top the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core at this price.
Connectivity: 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 33mm Neodymium | Max battery life: N/A (Wired) | Weight: 246g | Price: $59.99
Pros
Cons
To save even more money on your budget PS5 headset, consider a wired option. The Astro A10 may not be a looker, but its 33mm drivers are surprisingly full-bodied for a headset of this price, and the clarity of its microphone far outpaces that of even more premium headsets. Add in the handy volume control mounted on the connecting cable, and you’ve got all the essentials.
The real draw, though, is its ruggedness. This is a headset that can take a beating. The plastic ear cups are bulky but solid, and even the headband can bend in surprising directions without snapping. It’s made to last and is the perfect headset for throwing in the bottom of a backpack or tossing across the coach.
There are a few compromises: there are no EQ options (fairly standard within this price range), the ear cups are small and will likely squish those with bigger ears, and although it’s durable, the cushions around the headband don’t offer much support. But for solid audio quality at a reasonable price, the A10 a simple but effective PS5 headset.
Connectivity: Bluetooth | Drivers: 8.4mm | Max battery life: 12 hours | Weight: 6.5g (each bud) | Price: $199.99
Pros
Cons
If you’d prefer to sit in front of your PS5 without a tight headband clamping your head, check out the Sony Inzone Buds. These wireless gaming earbuds are lightweight, comfortable, and secure. They also have heaps of extra features over many other wireless gaming headsets: remappable gesture controls for muting the mic and adjusting volume, granular spatial sound controls, and active noise cancellation.
There are no issues with lag here – a problem from which many early wireless earbuds suffered. And while the audio quality won’t match that of a similarly priced over-ear headset, it’s good enough that the Inzone Buds can double as your regular music earbuds, too.
While the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed used to be our favorite wireless earbuds, the Sony Inzone Buds have topped them thanks in large part to their generous battery life of around 12 hours. The extra juice stored in their charging case means you’ll rarely need to worry about keeping them charged. They’re the kind of earbuds you can sling next to your TV, or at the bottom of your bag, and forget about.
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: Triforce Titanium 50mm | Max battery life: 70 hours | Weight: 320g | Price: $199.99
Pros
Cons
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro features what is arguably the best microphone among all the headsets in its price range. Combine that with a generous soundstage that accurately captures the width of the virtual audio around you, and it’s particularly well-tailored to multiplayer gaming.
Razer’s 50mm Triforce drivers sound as rich as you’d expect – singing in the mids particularly – and the quality of the headset’s build can’t be faulted. Everything from the stitching around the headband to the casing of the ear cups to the built-in pop filter of the microphone signals its premium finish. And don’t worry, those spindly arms connecting the headband and ear cups aren’t nearly as fragile as they may look.
It’s rounded off by a mammoth 70-hour advertised battery life, which seems to be accurate from our testing, and chunky cushions over the ear cups and headband made from a breathable fabric mesh. Plus, the tonal range of the drivers makes it fantastic for other kinds of media besides gaming, from podcasts to music. A very comprehensive headset indeed.
Connectivity: USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 12 hours | Weight: 292g | Price: $99.00
Pros
Cons
The official PlayStation headset that launched alongside the PS5, the Sony Pulse 3D has been explicitly designed to show off the console’s next-gen audio capabilities. It does that very well, particularly when it comes to the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, the virtual surround sound system designed to enhance positional audio feedback – think footsteps in a distant corridor, or an NPC talking to you from behind.
Even without that surround sound engaged, the Pulse 3D is a well-performing headset with a wide soundstage. The rounded, well-padded leatherette ear cups are wider than they look, although they can get a tad warm after continuous use. It’s lightweight, too, and the slick white-black color scheme perfectly fits the PS5 hardware.
A pair of noise-canceling microphones are built into the headset’s ear cups. They work fine and audio comes through loud and clear, though they struggle to completely isolate and eliminate background noise. For the most part, that won’t be a problem, but consider warning your multiplayer buddies if you’re ever playing while someone is vacuuming nearby.
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 32 hours | Weight: 330g | Price: $299.99
Pros
Cons
Another official Sony headset, the Inzone H9 differs from the cheaper Sony Pulse 3D in one main aspect: active noise cancellation. It’s the headset’s big draw, which it pulls off wonderfully, blocking out ambient surrounding sounds as well as higher-pitched whirs from fans, TVs, or loud cars. An extra Ambient Sound mode that allows nearby sounds to pass through is handy for keeping conversations going without needing to press pause.
The cans themselves don’t rival Sony’s dedicated music headphones, like the WH-1000XM5, the best noise cancelling headphones, but with a reasonably wide soundstage and respectable bass output, plus the fact they handle the PS5’s 3D audio tech as deftly as the Pulse 3D, there’s little to complain about. Again, though, don’t expect to be blown away by the microphone. It’s serviceable but standard, and you may find yourself cranking its output so your friends on the other end can hear you.
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: 40mm custom | Max battery life: 22 hours | Weight: 339g | Price: $349.99
Pros
Cons
The cream of the crop. The pick of the litter. La crème de la crème. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the best high-end gaming headset for PS5. Plenty wide and rich across all registers, and especially punchy in the bass, nothing is lost coming through these 40mm drivers. The extendable microphone is clear and loud, and it does a reasonable job cutting out background noise in loud environments. And, of course, the headset’s fully compatible with the PS5’s Tempest 3D audio.
The accompanying Base Station (that small rounded black block that sits in front of your TV) can be used to flick between EQ settings on the fly but is most impressive for its battery charging. With two batteries included in the box, you can leave one juicing up while the other powers the headset, meaning you’ll never be left high and dry. The leatherette is plush, the elasticated headband snug but not tight, and the cups seal comfortably around the ears.
While the Audeze Maxwell is another popular premium headset among PS5 audiophiles, we favor the Arctis Nova Pro for its active noise cancellation and dual connectivity, which lets you listen to your PS5 along with audio from another source, like a podcast on your phone. It costs a pretty penny, but the audio quality is worth it, plus if you pair it with one of the best capture cards for PS5, it's great for streamers. And with the extendable microphone slotting neatly back into the headset, it can double as a very capable pair of music headphones.
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth, PlayStation Link | Drivers: planar magnetic | Max battery life: 30 hours | Weight: 347g | Price: $149.99
Pros:
Cons:
The PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset is an absolute beast of gaming headset, but doubles as a great wireless headset when you’re in a pinch. It offers PlayStation Link technology, allowing you to speedily connect to the PlayStation Portal with the tap of a button, or the PS5 almost as quickly using the USB dongle. Add when connected to PS5, you can easily play around with EQ settings. Wireless multipoint also allows for simultaneous listening on two devices, so you can hear the action in a game while jamming out your favorite songs on your phone via Bluetooth.
Gaming headsets aren’t known for their music chops; the PlayStation Pulse Elite is an exception. Since Sony acquired Audeze, it put the audio giant’s top-notch planar magnetic drivers in the earcups for clear, detailed audio perfect for gaming or music. It’s not as bass-heavy as some, but you’ll still enjoy a pleasant listening experience. When paired with Sony’s spatial audio, everything from first-person shooters to story-driven RPGs come to life.
The most limiting factor of the PlayStation Pulse Elite may be the design. Don’t get us wrong, the headset is comfortable; it just has a rather polarizing unique, simple look with minimal controls. A physical telescoping mic pulls out from the earcup that isolates your voice well but sounds slightly muddled. When charging the headset, you have two options, plugging in a USB-C or attaching it to the sleek wall-mounted charger—a handy addition.
With an excess of PS5 gaming headsets, it’s hard to choose the best one for you. First and foremost, you need to decide on a budget. There are plenty of great options for under $100, but you’ll need to sacrifice some things, be it features, sound performance, or build quality. Generally, with a higher price tag, you’ll get adjustable EQ settings, surround sound, and spatial audio, so if any of those things are important, you need to be ready to splurge.
After deciding on your budget, your next focus will be design, with special attention paid to comfort. You’ll want plush, breathable earcups, a flexible headband, and a lightweight build to ensure you’re happy wearing the headset for hours.
Connectivity is key. Wired is generally cheaper and more reliable. But the USB receivers seen in most wireless headsets these days are pretty great, too, and you don’t need to worry about being tethered to your console or controller. However, the PS5 does not support Bluetooth audio. Unfortunately, most PS5 options also don’t work as Xbox Series X/S headsets, but most make great PC or Switch headsets.
Of course, sound performance is essential to hearing cues in your games and communicating with teammates. That means you want quality drivers ready to pump out loud, nuanced sound, while the mics should keep your voice crisp and clear – boom mics tend to do a better job of this. Looking for support of Sony’s 3D audio can also make for a more immersive listening experience as you game.
Finally, there are all the extras that can improve your quality of life while using the headset, like on-ear controls, adjustable EQ settings, active noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, etc. Once you consider all those features, if you’re straying away from our picks, be sure to research and read reviews before making your final decision.
All the headsets on this list were hands-on tested across several weeks of active use. We put each one through its paces across several games and genres to see how their overall audio performance fared. We also tested any extra functionality they offered, such as EQ adjustments, active noise cancellation, and battery life.
When choosing the headsets to include on this list, we looked for those that offer excellent audio quality, comfort, and durability for a reasonable price. Some are budget options, others will take a big chunk from your wallet, but we reckon all of them warrant their price tag. It’s up to you to decide whether the pricier picks are necessary for your purposes, or if you’ll get along just fine with a more affordable headset.
Rather than headsets, many streamers use standalone microphones and headphones as they tend to support higher audio fidelity. Those who use headsets will usually pick pairs that feature robust, clear microphones to ensure their voice is broadcast to their audience at a high quality, like the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) or SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. Those interested in streaming may want to consider a capture card as well - see our roundup of the best capture cards for PS5.
We reckon the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless is the best budget headset for PS5 because of its great audio quality and sub-$100 price tag. If you’re looking to save even more money, it might be wise to consider the Astro A10. Although a wired headset, its speakers are full-bodied, its microphone is surprisingly robust, and its build quality is excellent.
The Sony Pulse 3D does a good job showing off the PS5’s next-gen 3D audio tech, whereby noises and sounds are emulated to appear in a 360-degree space around your ears. It’s straightforward to set up, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable for an official PlayStation headset. A great choice if you want to see exactly what the PS5’s 3D audio can do.
If you're hoping to connect wireless headphones and headsets to your PS5, you will need a compatible Bluetooth adapter. The PS5 does not currently support direct pairing with any Bluetooth headphones for audio output.
PlayStation Link is Sony’s latest wireless connectivity standard that provides a lightning-fast connection, lossless audio, and ultra-low latency with easy switching between different devices. The PlayStation Portal is the only gaming device with the technology built-in. So, you’ll need the PS Link USB dongle when using the PS5, PS5 Slim, and PC. We’re hopeful that the PlayStation 5 Pro, rumored to be released later this year, will feature this proprietary wireless technology. Still, at the moment, only a couple of Sony’s peripherals have this technology, including the PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset in this guide.
Made specifically for the PS5, this form of surround sound uses Tempest 3D AudioTech to simulate 360-degree audio in supported PS5 games. That means you can tell the direction the audio is coming from, be it a helicopter overhead or footsteps to your side, giving you an advantage over opponents. It’s similar to Windows Sonic on the Xbox Series X/S. Plenty of the best PS5 headsets support Sony’s 3D audio, including the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P, Sony Pulse 3D, and PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset.
Callum Bains is a freelance tech contributor and writer for IGN, with work seen on MSN, Yahoo and more.
TL;DR - These are the best PS5 headsets:
- SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P
- EPOS H6Pro
- HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless
- Astro A10
- Sony InZone Buds
- Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
- Sony Pulse 3D
- Sony INZONE H9
- SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
- PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
The best PS5 headsets deliver excellent sound, first and foremost, as nothing takes you out of the game quicker than muddy sonic texture, and your teammates will also appreciate a clear mic. Features like noise cancelling, adjustable EQ settings, and support for Sony’s 3D audio tech can make a world of difference in your listening experience and even give you an advantage in games. Best of all, you might not even need to empty your wallet for those extras if you score a great gaming headset deal.
From budget to high-end, all our picks bring a better, more immersive sound than the speakers found on the best PS5 TVs – and click here to see them in the UK. And if you want another way to customize your gaming setup, you can also add some new faceplates to your PS5, too.
If you're looking for discounts on the best PS5 accessories, check out our picks for the best PS5 deals.
The Best PS5 Gaming Headsets Available Now
1. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless
Best wireless PS5 headset
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm custom | Max battery life: Up to 38 hours | Weight: 324g | Price: $179.99
Pros
- Fabulous out-of-the-box audio setup
- Generous battery life
Cons
- Noise cancellation struggles to block high pitches
Fabulous audio quality and comfort without an eye-watering price tag, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P Wireless, the PS5 version of the Arctis Nova 7, is the best wireless gaming headset for PS5. Out of the box, the sound is nicely bass-heavy with a reasonably wide soundstage. It’s able to take full advantage of the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, one of the console’s flagship features that situates sounds in an immersive 360-degree space around your ears.
The microphone, although dinky and retractable, is beefer than it might appear. It’s crisper and louder than many other headsets you’ll find at this price point, and it does a particularly good job of canceling out background noise like chatter and whirring fans. Aall of this can be easily adjusted using the robust EQ controls accessed through a PC companion app, which makes experimenting with different settings a breeze.
The icing on the cake is the Arctis Nova 7P’s battery life. It can easily top more than 30 hours and will get back to full juice in a couple of hours of charging. Throw in PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile compatibility through a USB-C dongle or Bluetooth, and this is a quality catch-all headset that will last.
2. EPOS H6Pro
Best wired PS5 headset
Specs: Connectivity: 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 42mm Neodymium | Max battery life: N/A (Wired) | Weight: 322g | Price: $179.00
Pros
- Sleek design
- Very comfortable to wear
Cons
- Microphone has a hard time picking up lows
If you’re after excellent audio quality but would rather be wired to your PS5, consider the EPOS H6Pro. With a wide soundstage and even range, anything you throw at this headset – from lush orchestras to the multi-layered audio effects – sounds pretty darn excellent. The microphone is loud and clear, too, although tends to accentuate the highs of your voice.
It’s also fabulously comfortable, with big, thick cushions around the ear cups that provide plenty of support without getting too hot. The large volume dial is a nice touch, as is the detachable magnetic microphone. Combined with the headset’s sleek, semi-minimalist design, the H6Pro can serve as a handy pair of headphones for on-the-go music listening as well as gaming.
Bear in mind the H6Pro comes in both open- and closed-back variants. You’ll enjoy better ventilation from the open-back version, while the closed-back will better isolate your ears from outside noise and stop the sound from your headset leaking out. We’d opt for the closed-back.
3. HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless
Best budget wireless PS5 headset
Connectivity: USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 17 hours | Weight: 244g | Price: $79.99
Pros
- Fantastic value
- Lightweight
Cons
- Microphone sounds a touch tinny
The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is the exception to the rule among budget gaming headsets: a sub-$100 pair of cans with good enough audio quality to make the extra cost of their wireless connectivity worthwhile. The 40mm drivers are solid and workmanlike, even if they suffer from scooped mids, and the microphone will pick up your voice with all the clarity you’d need for gaming with your buddies.
Outside of a volume wheel, which is still something of a rarity among cheaper headsets, you’re not getting a lot in the way of features. The headband is sturdy thanks to an inner metal frame, the headset doesn’t pinch too tightly around the noggin, and the battery lasts around 17 hours before needing a charge. There’s nothing flashy here, but you’ll struggle to find another wireless headset that can top the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core at this price.
4. Astro A10
Best budget wired PS5 headset
Connectivity: 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 33mm Neodymium | Max battery life: N/A (Wired) | Weight: 246g | Price: $59.99
Pros
- Surprisingly robust mic
- Lightweight
Cons
- Small ear cups
To save even more money on your budget PS5 headset, consider a wired option. The Astro A10 may not be a looker, but its 33mm drivers are surprisingly full-bodied for a headset of this price, and the clarity of its microphone far outpaces that of even more premium headsets. Add in the handy volume control mounted on the connecting cable, and you’ve got all the essentials.
The real draw, though, is its ruggedness. This is a headset that can take a beating. The plastic ear cups are bulky but solid, and even the headband can bend in surprising directions without snapping. It’s made to last and is the perfect headset for throwing in the bottom of a backpack or tossing across the coach.
There are a few compromises: there are no EQ options (fairly standard within this price range), the ear cups are small and will likely squish those with bigger ears, and although it’s durable, the cushions around the headband don’t offer much support. But for solid audio quality at a reasonable price, the A10 a simple but effective PS5 headset.
5. Sony InZone Buds
Best PS5 Earbuds
Connectivity: Bluetooth | Drivers: 8.4mm | Max battery life: 12 hours | Weight: 6.5g (each bud) | Price: $199.99
Pros
- Enviable battery life
- 360 Spatial Sound support
Cons
- Pricey
If you’d prefer to sit in front of your PS5 without a tight headband clamping your head, check out the Sony Inzone Buds. These wireless gaming earbuds are lightweight, comfortable, and secure. They also have heaps of extra features over many other wireless gaming headsets: remappable gesture controls for muting the mic and adjusting volume, granular spatial sound controls, and active noise cancellation.
There are no issues with lag here – a problem from which many early wireless earbuds suffered. And while the audio quality won’t match that of a similarly priced over-ear headset, it’s good enough that the Inzone Buds can double as your regular music earbuds, too.
While the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed used to be our favorite wireless earbuds, the Sony Inzone Buds have topped them thanks in large part to their generous battery life of around 12 hours. The extra juice stored in their charging case means you’ll rarely need to worry about keeping them charged. They’re the kind of earbuds you can sling next to your TV, or at the bottom of your bag, and forget about.
6. Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023)
Best PS5 Headset for multiplayer
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: Triforce Titanium 50mm | Max battery life: 70 hours | Weight: 320g | Price: $199.99
Pros
- Superb microphone
- Premium material finish
Cons
- No 3.5mm jack
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro features what is arguably the best microphone among all the headsets in its price range. Combine that with a generous soundstage that accurately captures the width of the virtual audio around you, and it’s particularly well-tailored to multiplayer gaming.
Razer’s 50mm Triforce drivers sound as rich as you’d expect – singing in the mids particularly – and the quality of the headset’s build can’t be faulted. Everything from the stitching around the headband to the casing of the ear cups to the built-in pop filter of the microphone signals its premium finish. And don’t worry, those spindly arms connecting the headband and ear cups aren’t nearly as fragile as they may look.
It’s rounded off by a mammoth 70-hour advertised battery life, which seems to be accurate from our testing, and chunky cushions over the ear cups and headband made from a breathable fabric mesh. Plus, the tonal range of the drivers makes it fantastic for other kinds of media besides gaming, from podcasts to music. A very comprehensive headset indeed.
7. Sony Pulse 3D
Best PS5 Headset for 3D audio
Connectivity: USB dongle, 3.5mm jack | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 12 hours | Weight: 292g | Price: $99.00
Pros
- Tailored to the PS5
- Surprisingly affordable for official Sony gear
Cons
- Mediocre active noise canceling
The official PlayStation headset that launched alongside the PS5, the Sony Pulse 3D has been explicitly designed to show off the console’s next-gen audio capabilities. It does that very well, particularly when it comes to the PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, the virtual surround sound system designed to enhance positional audio feedback – think footsteps in a distant corridor, or an NPC talking to you from behind.
Even without that surround sound engaged, the Pulse 3D is a well-performing headset with a wide soundstage. The rounded, well-padded leatherette ear cups are wider than they look, although they can get a tad warm after continuous use. It’s lightweight, too, and the slick white-black color scheme perfectly fits the PS5 hardware.
A pair of noise-canceling microphones are built into the headset’s ear cups. They work fine and audio comes through loud and clear, though they struggle to completely isolate and eliminate background noise. For the most part, that won’t be a problem, but consider warning your multiplayer buddies if you’re ever playing while someone is vacuuming nearby.
8. Sony INZONE H9
Best noise-canceling PS5 headset
Specs: Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: 40mm Neodymium | Max battery life: 32 hours | Weight: 330g | Price: $299.99
Pros
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Plenty of battery life
Cons
- Middling mic
Another official Sony headset, the Inzone H9 differs from the cheaper Sony Pulse 3D in one main aspect: active noise cancellation. It’s the headset’s big draw, which it pulls off wonderfully, blocking out ambient surrounding sounds as well as higher-pitched whirs from fans, TVs, or loud cars. An extra Ambient Sound mode that allows nearby sounds to pass through is handy for keeping conversations going without needing to press pause.
The cans themselves don’t rival Sony’s dedicated music headphones, like the WH-1000XM5, the best noise cancelling headphones, but with a reasonably wide soundstage and respectable bass output, plus the fact they handle the PS5’s 3D audio tech as deftly as the Pulse 3D, there’s little to complain about. Again, though, don’t expect to be blown away by the microphone. It’s serviceable but standard, and you may find yourself cranking its output so your friends on the other end can hear you.
9. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Best high-end wireless PS5 headset
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB dongle | Drivers: 40mm custom | Max battery life: 22 hours | Weight: 339g | Price: $349.99
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality
- Feature-rich Base Station
Cons
- Expensive
The cream of the crop. The pick of the litter. La crème de la crème. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the best high-end gaming headset for PS5. Plenty wide and rich across all registers, and especially punchy in the bass, nothing is lost coming through these 40mm drivers. The extendable microphone is clear and loud, and it does a reasonable job cutting out background noise in loud environments. And, of course, the headset’s fully compatible with the PS5’s Tempest 3D audio.
The accompanying Base Station (that small rounded black block that sits in front of your TV) can be used to flick between EQ settings on the fly but is most impressive for its battery charging. With two batteries included in the box, you can leave one juicing up while the other powers the headset, meaning you’ll never be left high and dry. The leatherette is plush, the elasticated headband snug but not tight, and the cups seal comfortably around the ears.
While the Audeze Maxwell is another popular premium headset among PS5 audiophiles, we favor the Arctis Nova Pro for its active noise cancellation and dual connectivity, which lets you listen to your PS5 along with audio from another source, like a podcast on your phone. It costs a pretty penny, but the audio quality is worth it, plus if you pair it with one of the best capture cards for PS5, it's great for streamers. And with the extendable microphone slotting neatly back into the headset, it can double as a very capable pair of music headphones.
10. PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
Best multiuse PS5 headset
Connectivity: Wired, Bluetooth, PlayStation Link | Drivers: planar magnetic | Max battery life: 30 hours | Weight: 347g | Price: $149.99
Pros:
- Clear, detailed audio
- Wireless multipoint
Cons:
- Unique design won’t appeal to all
The PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset is an absolute beast of gaming headset, but doubles as a great wireless headset when you’re in a pinch. It offers PlayStation Link technology, allowing you to speedily connect to the PlayStation Portal with the tap of a button, or the PS5 almost as quickly using the USB dongle. Add when connected to PS5, you can easily play around with EQ settings. Wireless multipoint also allows for simultaneous listening on two devices, so you can hear the action in a game while jamming out your favorite songs on your phone via Bluetooth.
Gaming headsets aren’t known for their music chops; the PlayStation Pulse Elite is an exception. Since Sony acquired Audeze, it put the audio giant’s top-notch planar magnetic drivers in the earcups for clear, detailed audio perfect for gaming or music. It’s not as bass-heavy as some, but you’ll still enjoy a pleasant listening experience. When paired with Sony’s spatial audio, everything from first-person shooters to story-driven RPGs come to life.
The most limiting factor of the PlayStation Pulse Elite may be the design. Don’t get us wrong, the headset is comfortable; it just has a rather polarizing unique, simple look with minimal controls. A physical telescoping mic pulls out from the earcup that isolates your voice well but sounds slightly muddled. When charging the headset, you have two options, plugging in a USB-C or attaching it to the sleek wall-mounted charger—a handy addition.
Best PS5 Headset in the UK
How to Choose a PS5 Gaming Headset
With an excess of PS5 gaming headsets, it’s hard to choose the best one for you. First and foremost, you need to decide on a budget. There are plenty of great options for under $100, but you’ll need to sacrifice some things, be it features, sound performance, or build quality. Generally, with a higher price tag, you’ll get adjustable EQ settings, surround sound, and spatial audio, so if any of those things are important, you need to be ready to splurge.
After deciding on your budget, your next focus will be design, with special attention paid to comfort. You’ll want plush, breathable earcups, a flexible headband, and a lightweight build to ensure you’re happy wearing the headset for hours.
Connectivity is key. Wired is generally cheaper and more reliable. But the USB receivers seen in most wireless headsets these days are pretty great, too, and you don’t need to worry about being tethered to your console or controller. However, the PS5 does not support Bluetooth audio. Unfortunately, most PS5 options also don’t work as Xbox Series X/S headsets, but most make great PC or Switch headsets.
Of course, sound performance is essential to hearing cues in your games and communicating with teammates. That means you want quality drivers ready to pump out loud, nuanced sound, while the mics should keep your voice crisp and clear – boom mics tend to do a better job of this. Looking for support of Sony’s 3D audio can also make for a more immersive listening experience as you game.
Finally, there are all the extras that can improve your quality of life while using the headset, like on-ear controls, adjustable EQ settings, active noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, etc. Once you consider all those features, if you’re straying away from our picks, be sure to research and read reviews before making your final decision.
How We Picked the Best PS5 Headsets
All the headsets on this list were hands-on tested across several weeks of active use. We put each one through its paces across several games and genres to see how their overall audio performance fared. We also tested any extra functionality they offered, such as EQ adjustments, active noise cancellation, and battery life.
When choosing the headsets to include on this list, we looked for those that offer excellent audio quality, comfort, and durability for a reasonable price. Some are budget options, others will take a big chunk from your wallet, but we reckon all of them warrant their price tag. It’s up to you to decide whether the pricier picks are necessary for your purposes, or if you’ll get along just fine with a more affordable headset.
PS5 Headsets FAQ
Which headsets do PS5 streamers use?
Rather than headsets, many streamers use standalone microphones and headphones as they tend to support higher audio fidelity. Those who use headsets will usually pick pairs that feature robust, clear microphones to ensure their voice is broadcast to their audience at a high quality, like the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023) or SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless. Those interested in streaming may want to consider a capture card as well - see our roundup of the best capture cards for PS5.
What is the best budget gaming headset for PS5?
We reckon the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core Wireless is the best budget headset for PS5 because of its great audio quality and sub-$100 price tag. If you’re looking to save even more money, it might be wise to consider the Astro A10. Although a wired headset, its speakers are full-bodied, its microphone is surprisingly robust, and its build quality is excellent.
Is Sony Pulse 3D worth it?
The Sony Pulse 3D does a good job showing off the PS5’s next-gen 3D audio tech, whereby noises and sounds are emulated to appear in a 360-degree space around your ears. It’s straightforward to set up, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable for an official PlayStation headset. A great choice if you want to see exactly what the PS5’s 3D audio can do.
Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PS5?
If you're hoping to connect wireless headphones and headsets to your PS5, you will need a compatible Bluetooth adapter. The PS5 does not currently support direct pairing with any Bluetooth headphones for audio output.
What is PlayStation Link?
PlayStation Link is Sony’s latest wireless connectivity standard that provides a lightning-fast connection, lossless audio, and ultra-low latency with easy switching between different devices. The PlayStation Portal is the only gaming device with the technology built-in. So, you’ll need the PS Link USB dongle when using the PS5, PS5 Slim, and PC. We’re hopeful that the PlayStation 5 Pro, rumored to be released later this year, will feature this proprietary wireless technology. Still, at the moment, only a couple of Sony’s peripherals have this technology, including the PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset in this guide.
What is Sony’s 3D Audio?
Made specifically for the PS5, this form of surround sound uses Tempest 3D AudioTech to simulate 360-degree audio in supported PS5 games. That means you can tell the direction the audio is coming from, be it a helicopter overhead or footsteps to your side, giving you an advantage over opponents. It’s similar to Windows Sonic on the Xbox Series X/S. Plenty of the best PS5 headsets support Sony’s 3D audio, including the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7P, Sony Pulse 3D, and PlayStation Pulse Elite Wireless Headset.
Callum Bains is a freelance tech contributor and writer for IGN, with work seen on MSN, Yahoo and more.
![[DK]](/data/avatars/s/57/57999.jpg?1720990206){kind=avatar}
